Restaurant Closures in August, Including One That's Converting

Just two places (that we know of) shut up shop for good last month, and even one of those--Hof's Hut in Orange--is being turned into another restaurant, a Lucille's "Rib Shack." The person I spoke to wouldn't confirm that it'll be a more casual version of the famed barbecue chain (although judging by reports--and the name--it will be), but she did say it will hopefully open some time in October. More info as we have it...

The other casualty is Mesa Grill & BBQ, in Santa Ana.

So hopefully the low count is a sign that the economy is turning around. Fingers crossed.